Virginia law § 18.2-308.2:4 allows firearm dealers to verify if a firearm has been reported as lost or stolen through a Department of State Police check. Dealers must obtain written consent and specific firearm details from the seller before conducting the verification. This process aims to prevent the transfer of stolen firearms and enhances law enforcement efforts.
Licensed firearm dealers in Virginia can perform verification checks through the Department of State Police when receiving a firearm from a non-dealer.
The seller must provide a valid photo ID, written consent for the check, and details about the firearm including serial number, make, model, and caliber.
No, the check is optional; dealers may choose to perform it when receiving firearms from non-dealers to help identify stolen firearms.
If reported as stolen, law enforcement will be notified, and the transfer may be halted to prevent illegal activity.